[the OlLine Rebel]

You of course, make good points.

However, most of our “oil” typically comes from the US; 2nd from Canada and (unfortunately now) Venezuela.

(As an aside to the old “blood for oil” mantra about wars like in Iraq: Iraq provided about a whopping 5% of our oil. We’re not gaining much by controlling Iraq. Better to invade Canada.)

As another point, you talk about budget. But for the vast majority of us, what is it making us SACRIFICE? A 2nd TV? Cable modems? A baseball game? Candy bars? Cell phone?

We have it too good to complain. Most of us have quite a bit of “disposable” income, and so it is only that that is really affected by an almost-essential like this.

[thackney]

However, most of our “oil” typically comes from the US

We import more petroleum than we produce domestically.